What are some pros and cons of residential steel buildings?

A:

Quick Answer

The pros and cons of residential steel buildings include durability, faster building, flexibility, high initial cost and difficulty in building. Galvanized steel is better for residential building compared to plain steel.

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The main advantage of steel buildings is durability. Steel is resistant to termites and better able to withstand extreme weather conditions. Insurance premiums for steel building are typically lower than other building materials and cost less in maintenance and repairs.

Steel is generally easier to work with and significantly reduces building time. Buildings that incorporate new technology in insulating systems are more energy efficient.

Building with steel allows for more flexibility especially in interior design. This is especially important for residential buildings that may serve alternative purposes in future.

The main disadvantage of steel buildings is high initial construction costs compared to alternative materials. Framing with steel can be especially costly causing many investors to opt for wood framing.

Steel constructions also require highly trained and specialized contractors who may not be available in some towns or counties. Working with galvanized steel may be especially difficult for the average contractor.

Lastly, steel is susceptible to corrosion especially in oceanic climates which can threaten the structural integrity of the building. Good ways to alleviate this problem include using galvanized steel and performing routine maintenance.